4 tips on how to talk to an Executive

Important conversations with Executives can be intimidating, but it’s also an opportunity to get seen and make a strong impression. Executives are busy, influential, and results-driven—so if you want to get their attention and buy-in, here’s how to do it right:

1. Treat it like you're being interviewed by the BBC

This is your chance to be seen by someone with serious influence. Treat the moment with the preparation it deserves. Rehearse what you’re going to say, know your key points inside-out, and deliver them with confidence. When you’re ready, it shows—and that’s what gets their attention.

2. BLUF: Bottom Line Up Front

Executives don’t have time for long-winded explanations. Lead with the headline: your main point or recommendation comes first. Once you’ve stated it, then back it up with evidence, not the other way around. Respect their time by being concise, clear, and direct.

3. Turn your key point into a story

People remember stories, not statistics. Use analogies or visuals to bring your point to life. For example, if you’re requesting budget for a new software tool, you could say:

"Right now, we’re trying to chop down a tree with a blunt axe. It’s exhausting, and we’re not getting anywhere. But with the right tools—a sharper axe—we can work smarter, not harder, and make real progress."

Analogies like this stick in people’s minds and make your idea more compelling.

4. Have answers prepared and steer the agenda

Executives will challenge you—it’s part of the process. Don’t let questions or interruptions derail you. Anticipate their objections ahead of time and have your answers ready. If the conversation veers off course, guide them back to your key messages. You can use the ‘Yes and..’ technique here – ‘Yes, that’s a great point, and it links back to what I was saying about [Key message]’

The bottom line

Yes, executives are tough, but they’re also key decision-makers. If you can win them over, they’ll champion your ideas—and that’s worth the effort.

Learn more about how to deal with Executives on our popular course Managing Upwards.